ACT VS. SAT
The ACT and SAT are two competing examinations for college entrance. Most schools will accept either an ACT or an SAT score BUT check with the school you are considering to see what they prefer. We suggest that you take both the ACT and SAT and see which one you score higher on, then concentrate on that test.
SAT vs. ACT Comparison
Which one is better for me?
Most colleges today accept either the SAT or ACT and state that they don’t have a preference. It’s not unusual for a student to score significantly higher on one test vs. the other. Many students are asking: “Which test should I take?”
First, check to see if the schools you are considering have a test preference or requirement. If not, consider your options.
Keep in mind the differences in structure and content of the two exams. The tests have distinct qualities — the ACT is curriculum-based (English, math, reading, science and an optional writing section), while the SAT is more of an aptitude test focused on vocabulary, reading comprehension, general reasoning and problem-solving skills.
If you have a hard time staying focused for long periods, the ACT may be the test for you. It’s shorter, generally more straightforward and there are more knowledge-based questions. English and math are a part of both tests, but the content and orientation is different.
The SAT focuses more on vocabulary and the ACT concentrates on grammar, punctuation and syntax. The ACT includes science and trigonometry, neither of which is found on the SAT.
Some counselors will tell you that intelligent underachievers will do better on the SAT and diligent overachievers will score better on the ACT.
Many experts recommend that you take both tests, as well as both pre-tests (the PSAT and the PLAN) if they are offered in your area.
If you wish to make an educated choice, check out some of the free full-length practice tests for the ACT and SAT online (at The College Board, ACT, Princetonreview.com, Petersons.com and Ivybound.net), familiarize yourself with the format, content and structure and decide what’s best for you.
If you don’t have a clear preference, many students looking for any edge to improve their chances of admission are taking both tests and submitting the higher score or both scores.
ACT
Students can visit www.act.org to get information about and to register for the ACT.
2019-20 Test Dates
September 14
October 26
December 14
February 8
April 4
June 13
July 18
You must create an account first. Fee waivers are available for students that meet the requirements in School Counseling!
Test Fee (No Writing) - $50.50
Test Fee (With Writing) - $67.00
Late Fee - add $30.00
SAT
Students can visit www.collegeboard.com to get information about and to register for the SAT.
Juniors are advised to wait to take SATs until March.
2019-20 Test Dates
August 24
October 5
November 2
December 7
March 14
May 2
June 6
You must create an account first. Be sure to write down your username and password somewhere safe! Fee waivers are available for students that meet the requirements in School Counseling!
Test Fee - $47.50
Test Fee with Essay - $64.50
Late Fee - add $29
2019-2020 MOCK ACT/SAT TEST DATES
VIENNA, VA AREA:
Click here to register for a mock ACT/SAT or click on a specific test date below.
ACT - 7/27/2019, 10/12/2019, 1/18/2020, 3/7/2020, 5/16/2020
SAT - 8/3/2019, 9/28/2019, 11/30/2019, 2/15/2020, 5/23/2020
WARRENTON, VA AREA:
Click here to register for a mock ACT/SAT or click on a specific test date below.
ACT - 7/20/2019, 9/28/2019, 11/9/2019, 1/11/2020, 3/21/2020, 5/9/2020
SAT - 7/27/2019, 9/21/2019, 11/16/2019, 1/25/2020, 3/7/2020, 5/16/2020
RICHMOND, VA AREA:
Click here to register for a mock ACT/SAT or click on a specific test date below.
ACT - 7/27/2019, 10/12/2019, 1/18/2020, 3/7/2020, 5/16/2020
SAT - 8/3/2019, 9/28/2019, 11/30/2019, 2/15/2020, 5/23/2020
CHARLOTTE, NC AREA:
Click here to register for a mock ACT/SAT or click on a specific test date below.
ACT - 7/20/2019, 9/28/2019, 11/9/2019, 1/11/2020, 3/21/2020, 5/9/2020
SAT - 7/27/2019, 9/21/2019, 11/16/2019, 1/25/2020, 3/7/2020, 5/16/2020
We also offer one-to-one mock testing at our offices. This consists of a full-length practice test for your child. Tests include: ACT, SAT, PSAT, SSAT, ISEE, HSPT, and SAT Subject Tests. We provide the test booklet, essay booklet, answer sheet, testing timer, calculator, and pencils.
We can send parents a practice test as well, to administer to their student in-home. We will send out a free practice test packet along with proctoring instructions. Parents must send the answer sheet back to us via email or mail.